New Delhi, March 19 -- Andaman and Nicobar Islands, known for biodiversity and isolated ancient tribes, is in the news as India moves to promote tourism and industry in the archipelago. What impact might these projects have and what are the concerns raised by environmentalists and locals?

What are the govt's plans for the islands?

In 2021, the government introduced the 'Great Nicobar Project' worth over Rs.72,000 crore, which includes an airport, a sea cargo terminal called Galathea Bay Port, and a natural gas and solar power plant. Work on the Galathea Bay Port is expected to start first, with 11 firms having expressed interest in the project worth Rs.44,000 crore. The government also plans to promote tourism in the uninhabited islands...